Ronald Carlson

Ronald Neal "Ron" Carlson, age 80, passed away on January 28, 2026, at his daughter's home in St. Charles, Illinois. Born on May 20, 1945, in Berwyn, Illinois, Ron lived a life filled with passion for learning, teaching, and connecting with others.

Ron went to Pershing Grade School and Morton West High School in Berwyn. From there he earned a scholarship and engineering degree from the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago. He went on to earn a scholarship and a business degree from Northwestern University in Evanston. Later he returned for a teaching certificate from University of Illinois Chicago.

Ron began his working career at Teletype Corporation in Skokie, enduring what he described as a "miserable drive" but forming many lasting friendships. At AT&T, he worked on the Allis Chalmers account in Detroit and later the State of Illinois account in Chicago. He was recognized for his contributions by membership in the President's Club and attended the AT&T Shareholder's Convention in Seattle in 1979. In Seattle Ron met Jackie Smith, the love of his life and his wife of 45 years.

In addition to his corporate roles, Ron worked part-time as a bartender at Embassy Suites in Oak Brook for over 20 years. He enjoyed meeting people from all walks of life and took full advantage of the beautiful hotel discounts when he travelled.

Teaching was one of Ron's greatest passions. Leaving the communications industry he taught history part-time at the College of DuPage, where he received recognition for designing and implementing innovative classes for the Older Adult Institute. He worked as a substitute teacher at Hinsdale Central High School for many years and in retirement at St. Charles East and North High Schools. Known affectionately as "The Civil War Guy," Ron shared his deep knowledge of American history with students and peers alike. He achieved his goal of subbing until the age of 80.

Ron's love for history extended beyond the classroom. He was an active member of several organizations dedicated to historical preservation and education, including the Chicago Civil War Roundtable, Salt Creek Civil War Roundtable, The Little Bighorn Association, and The Civil War Museum of Kenosha, Wisconsin. He participated in battlefield tours and meetings, often presenting at those meetings.

Ron was a huge sports fan and played in 16" softball leagues throughout his years in Detroit, Chicago (Grant Park) and Berwyn-Cicero. He was often designated hitter and more than once, most valuable player. Ron was a devoted fan of the Chicago White Sox and loved the Chicago Bears. From an early age Ron collected baseball cards and lately (humorously) bobbleheads.

Faith played an important role throughout Ron's life. Raised and confirmed at First Lutheran Church of Berwyn, he taught confirmation classes there for many years and saw both his son and daughter confirmed there. In 1989 Ron's son Nathan joined the US Navy with training at Great Lakes. Ron was extremely proud of him and loved hearing details of his travels and naval experiences over the next several years. In 1991 Ron moved to Clarendon Hills and joined Christ Lutheran Church. In 2003 he walked his lovely daughter, Shirley down the aisle. Ron soon became a grandfather and eventually it was time to move "closer to the kids" in St Charles, Illinois. There he attended family worship and activities with the children and grandchildren. During the Covid times Ron discovered a couple of very suitable Lutheran services online. Just 3 days before Ron passed away he watched his favorite service.

Ron is survived by his beloved wife Jackie (Smith) Carlson; his dearest daughter Shirley (Carlson) Calderini (son-in-law Mark); and his cherished grandchildren; Austin (wife Lindsay), Cameron, Oliver, and Emmaline. He was predeceased by his loving parents Reuben and Grace Carlson of Berwyn, Illinois; and his dearest son Nathan Carlson of Vancouver, Washington.

Those who knew Ron will remember him as an intelligent man who was always reading, good humored and engaging in conversation, and deeply committed to sharing knowledge with others. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched as a teacher, friend, uncle, husband, father, and grandfather.

May memories of Ron bring comfort to all who knew him. A Funeral Service will be held on March 14, 2026, from 4:00 PM at New Covenant Bible Church 4N780 Randall Rd, St Charles, Illinois. All are invited. All are welcome.